What is Deep Tissue Laser Therapy?

Laser therapy uses a process known as Photobiomodulation (PBMT), in which light triggers a cascade of biological events to increase cellular metabolism and decrease pain and inflammation. Deep tissue laser therapy is a treatment that uses high-powered class IV lasers to deliver healing red and near-infrared light deep inside the body, promoting tissue healing.

The Role of Wavelength in Deep Tissue Laser Therapy

Medical professionals discuss light wavelengths in terms of nanometers (nm), a unit of measurement that equals one thousand millionths of a meter. The human eye can detect wavelengths of 380 to 750 nanometers, with light wavelengths of 450 – 485nm appearing blue and wavelengths of 625–700nm appearing red.

The lasers used in laser therapy have longer wavelengths the human eye cannot see, and each wavelength can provide a different therapeutic effect. Laser therapy systems typically involve the use of three specific wavelengths:

• 810nm wavelength: Stimulates the delivery of oxygen to red blood cells, which helps muscles and tendons regenerate
• 980nm wavelength: Eases pain, improves circulation, and enhances muscle relaxation
• 1064nm wavelength: Penetrates tissue deep inside the body to activate metabolic processes in deeper tissue

Used alone for deep tissue treatments or combined with other wavelengths, 1064nm wavelength yields results other therapies cannot offer. The power output of deep tissue laser devices is essential, too, in that the repair of scar tissue at the surface of the skin requires different power than the treatment of tissue deep inside the body.

Learn more about the role of wavelength in laser therapy.

Biologic Effects of Deep Tissue Laser Therapy

Deep tissue laser therapy offers a variety of beneficial biologic effects, from boosting energy inside cells to promoting the healing of tissues deep within the body. Practitioners may suggest deep tissue laser therapy for the treatment of:

• Muscle strains
• Ligament sprains
• Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Neck pain
• Lower back pain
• Knee pain
• Pain from muscle spasms
• Neuropathy

Exposure to specific light wavelengths stimulates specific chemical reactions in the body. Specifically, Photobiomodulation therapy excites the mitochondria, known as the “powerhouse” of cells. Mitochondria use oxygen to turn nutrients into chemical energy the cell uses to function. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) transports this energy around the cell. Mitochondria also make ATP, so stimulating mitochondria with light promotes the production of energy and ATP within the treated cells, which helps improve the function and healing of those cells.

PBMT also activates myogenic satellite cells, also known as muscle stem cells, to stimulate the regeneration of muscle tissue. In other words, deep tissue laser therapy penetrates deeply into injured muscle tissue to promote healing. Once inside, the red light can speed recovery, improve nerve function, and stimulate the immune system. Deep tissue laser therapy can also dilate blood vessels and activate the lymphatic drainage system to reduce swelling caused by bruising or inflammation.

Laser therapy treatments are customizable, which allows your healthcare professional to tailor your treatment protocol to your specific needs. The treatment provider can adjust the strength of the laser and its bandwidth to allow the laser light to saturate tissues at specific depths beneath the skin.

Deep tissue laser therapy provides several health benefits, including:

• Reducing inflammation
• Easing pain
• Improving blood flow

Learn & discover the power of laser therapy with in-person seminars hosted by Aspen Laser.

What to Expect with Deep Tissue Laser Therapy

There are a variety of Photobiomodulation devices, such as PBMT beds, panels, and laser devices. The healthcare provider uses a machine to deliver laser light to muscles and other high intensities, readily absorbing the light. The procedure is painless and non-invasive—you will only feel the laser device touching your skin. You will not feel any vibration or uncomfortable heat, although some patients report a warm, soothing sensation. Deep tissue laser devices do not make sound, so it is a calming experience.

Deep tissue laser therapy is safe for most people; talk to your provider before having deep tissue laser therapy if you have any particular health considerations.

There is no special preparation for red light therapy. Each deep tissue laser treatment takes only a few minutes, and there is no downtime associated with the procedure. You can resume your normal activities right away.

Most people will start to feel better immediately after their first session. Depending on your condition, you may enjoy lasting results after several treatments.

Deep tissue laser therapy is a highly effective and pain-free approach to treating musculoskeletal conditions and other health issues. For more information about deep tissue laser therapy, find your local Aspen Laser provider: